The lower jaw hinges at the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located in front of each ear. These are the most complicated joints in the body, allowing the lower jaw to open, close, rotate and slide. The TMJs are used over 5,000 times each day when we chew, swallow, yawn, smile, laugh, eat, and speak.
Movement of the TMJs must be coordinated, working at the same time for the jaw to move properly. This movement is orchestrated by a complex set of muscles controlled by branches of the trigeminal nerve, which is one of the most complex and powerful nerves in the body. It feeds sensation and function to your jaw, face, tongue, sinus, palate, eyes, teeth, and lips. Since the trigeminal nerve feeds the jaw, it is closely associated with the function of the TMJ and is critical in the development of TMJ pain.
One of the primary causes of TMJ pain and disorders is damage to the joint itself. Direct or indirect trauma can affect the TMJ and clearly cause pain and dysfunction. One of the most commonly overlooked causes of TMJ pain is trauma to the upper neck and nervous system.
Common medical treatments for TMJ pain include over-the-counter and prescription drugs, splints, steroids, and surgery – all of which can have dangerous side effects.
The most common misconception about Upper Cervical care is that it only helps back and neck pain.
Although our doctors can certainly help those who come to us seeking relief from back and neck pain, these patients represent a small percentage of who we help. Patients suffering from a variety of conditions, including TMJ pain, have had their health restored through our care.
Upper Cervical care is based on the universal law of cause and effect. For every effect or symptom, physical or mental, there must be a cause.
Upper Cervical doctors recognize that the body is a self-healing organism, controlled and coordinated by the central nervous system, which is protected by the skull and spine.
Using a gentle technique, Upper Cervical doctors locate and remove interference to the nervous system, allowing the body to heal itself naturally without drugs or surgery.
When a misalignment occurs between the head and neck at the level of the top two bones in the neck, brain to body communication is disrupted and the jaw doesn’t open or close properly. This can result in TMJ pain, facial pain, ringing in the ears, headaches, and muscle tension.
Dr. Hilpisch will help you and your family get healthy and stay healthy.
